A travel ban has been imposed on Yemen after their president Ali Abdullah Saleh was assassinated in June 2011. It is therefore best to check with your government for your country’s specific travel advisories before booking your ticket. When travelling, safety should be one of your highest priorities.
You should also know that the climate in Yemen can be extreme. The northern part of the country has desert features with little vegetation. Temperatures can soar up to 129° F (54°C) during summer and below freezing during winter – especially in the central highlands. Meanwhile, the coastal areas receive regular rainfall around January or February. Expect humidity to be at an all-time high during summer.
Foreign nationals are expected to show travel permits upon entering Yemen. Travelers leaving the capital are also required to get a local travel permit, or tasriih, from the tourist police in Sana’a. This process might be seen as an inconvenience, but the permit allows you safe passage especially in areas where tribal unrest takes place. However, no tasriih is required when you use a plane to go to Yemen’s major cities.
Yemen has very few public holidays. Aside from the National Unity Day on May 22 and Revolution Day on September 26, where a military parade is expected to take place, the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are solemn days when the Yemenis come together to celebrate the life of the prophets.
Tourists going to Yemen may find the trip a bit challenging, but those bent on discovery and adventure may find that all the challenges are quite worthwhile.
Hello fellow travelers! My name is Mary and I am the main author of Traveling East. Just like any other travel enthusiasts, traveling has also been our passion! For inquiries, suggestions or anything travel related, please feel free to send us an E-mail at support@travelingeast.com.